[Lymphadenectomy of the inguinal region and pelvis]

Chirurg. 2007 Mar;78(3):226-32, 234-5. doi: 10.1007/s00104-006-1298-9.
[Article in German]

Abstract

The draining lymph nodes of extra-abdominal tumors and malignant lesions of the lower extremity are located in the groin and iliac region. Malignancies with lymphatic drainage into this region include tumors of the anorectum, penis and vulva, skin (melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma), and soft tissue sarcomas. Current clinical research in biology, routes of lymphatic spread, and the possibility of marking the sentinel lymph node has directed lymphadenectomy strategy toward differential procedures, depending on the type of underlying malignancy. The spectrum of lymphadenectomy includes diagnostic lymph node removal of clinically enlarged nodes, removal of the sentinel node, and radical lymphadenectomy. Lymphadenectomy can also be indicated as a palliative procedure. The indications also depend on the type of tumor, previous treatment, and disease prognosis. This review presents the current state of indications and surgical techniques of inguinal and iliacal lymphadenectomy.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Anus Neoplasms / pathology
  • Anus Neoplasms / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Inguinal Canal / surgery
  • Lymph Node Excision / methods*
  • Lymph Nodes / pathology
  • Lymphatic Metastasis
  • Male
  • Melanoma / pathology
  • Melanoma / surgery
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Pelvic Neoplasms / pathology
  • Pelvic Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Pelvis / surgery
  • Penile Neoplasms / pathology
  • Penile Neoplasms / surgery
  • Prognosis
  • Sarcoma / pathology
  • Sarcoma / surgery
  • Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / pathology
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / surgery
  • Vulvar Neoplasms / pathology
  • Vulvar Neoplasms / surgery